Happy Kwanzaa
from The Blackyard CollectiveUMOJA (unity) KUJICHAGULIA (self-determination) UJIMA (collective work and responsibility) UJAMAA (cooperative economics) NIA (purpose) KUUMBA (creativity) IMANI (faith)
Hello Michael! Today is the fifth day of Kwanzaa, dedicated to the principle of NIA (purpose), a commitment to the collective vocation of building, developing, and defending our community, its culture, and history in order to regain our historical initiative and greatness. Nia is based on the idea that the community's well-being is connected to individual success. As Black queer individuals who have endured various personal and institutional traumas, we are often viewed as tools to economically benefit others, at the cost of Black lives lost. For some, it is hard to envision a sense of purpose or success beyond this harmful role. Nia is discovered through engaging in roles that foster both personal growth and communal enrichment. These roles are key to our collective healing, helping to halt the cycle of destruction and achieve meaningful success. Living in active recovery is a role that helps us discover Nia, providing deeper meaning and direction in life. Being part of The Blackyard Collective, a Black queer community, allows us to connect with others who share similar experiences, making it easier to recognize our strengths and build our capacities. We are able to engage, both in spite of and because of our trauma—whether self-imposed or societal. As we discover our skills and gain self-knowledge, we can live free from the trauma of active addiction and the challenges of life. We empower ourselves to choose better paths and embody another layer of purpose. Transitioning from one role to another offers an opportunity to embrace our individual Nia and assist others in finding theirs. This is about contributing to the collective good. When we light the candle for Nia on this fifth day of Kwanzaa, let us gain insight into our greatness. Let us take action to find and live with a purpose that transcends "I" and becomes "We." "We have a duty to show up in the world with meaning and purpose and commitment to doing good. And to use any privilege that we have to make positive change and to disrupt oppressive systems." — Meena Harris
Happy Kwanzaa!
Love & Light!
Damal
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